The Cowboys will be playing with heavy hearts in Cincinnati on Sunday, after a fatal one-car accident Saturday morning killed 25-year-old practice squad linebacker Jerry Brown. Cowboys nose tackle Josh Brent was arrested Saturday morning and charged with intoxication manslaughter in the accident.

Brown’s death comes one week after the death of Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Jovan Belcher, who murdered his girlfriend, Kasandra Perkins, then drove to Chiefs headquarters and committed suicide in the parking lot.

The Cowboys team plane left for Sunday’s game in Cincinnati shortly after being informed of Brown’s death. Brent had been scheduled to start Sunday, but he did not make the trip.

NFL players reacted quickly to the news of Brown’s death.

“Just heard about the Josh Brent/ J Brown story and words cannot express how heavyhearted I feel for my former teammate,’’ tweeted Texans linebacker Bradie James, a former Cowboy.

“Praying for the Dallas Cowboys family,’’ said Steelers safety Ryan Clark. “Sad losing someone so young. Life is so much more than a game and we all need to start acting that way.’’

Colts general manager Ryan Grigson issued a statement about Brown, who had also spent time with the Colts.

“On behalf of the entire Colts family, out sincerest condolences go out to Jerry’s family and friends,’’ said Grigson. “He was a good teammate that was well liked by all. Today’s tragic news is just another reminder of how fragile life is and how everyday given is a gift.’’

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello statement that said, “We have been in contact with the Cowboys and deployed staff members and our independent professional counselors to assist the team in dealing with this tragedy. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jerry Brown and extend our condolences to his family, friends, and the Cowboys organization.’’

The NFL players association offers a safe ride program to all players. The phone number is on each player’s union card. The service is available anytime for $85 per hour.

“One phone call could have prevented this tragedy,’’ tweeted Seahawks defensive end Chris Clemons. “It’s never the one that’s driving that loses there (their, sic) life literally. Condolences to Jerry family.’’